A treasure of American writing ‘As You Were’ next up for Parson’s Nose

Nearly seven decades later, the daughter of a fallen World War II soldier received a letter penned by her father, along with his military awards.

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Parson’s Nose Theater (PNT), the acclaimed classical comedic theater company led by Artistic Director Lance Davis, begins the second half of their 2013-14 Season with a Readers’ Theater Series production of “As You Were: Stories for American GIs in WWII”.

Courtesy of Parson's Nose Theater

“In 1943, Alexander Woollcott, famed wit of The New Yorker Magazine, put together ‘As You Were’ for our troops in WWII”, says Davis. “Woollcott said that when he himself was in WWI, he noticed that the MPs never bothered anyone who was carrying a book, so he wanted our boys to have that advantage. It’s a treasure of American writing, including excerpts of stories and poems that are funny, touching, and inspiring. Picture a 20 year old, far from home, sitting in a trench or hospital and being reminded of why he or she was there, through the works of Twain, Parker, Longfellow and O. Henry. These are works that deserve to be known and celebrated by all Americans.”

Parson’s Nose presents “As You Were: Stories for American GIs in WWII” as a part of their Readers’ Theater Series. Featured works include “The Duke and the Dauphin Come Aboard” by Mark Twain, “Address Unknown” by Kathrine Kressmann Taylor, “The Skylight Room” by O. Henry, “Paul Revere’s Ride” by H.W. Longfellow, “The Waltz” by Dorothy Parker and The Declaration of Independence. The stage adaptations are by Davis. The Parson’s Nose Company will include Lance Davis, Mary Chalon, Marisa Chandler, Jill Rogosheske, Barry Gordon, Gary Lamb, James Calvert, Ivar Brogger and Fred Thompson.

Parson’s Nose will be holding a book drive in conjunction with their readings of “As You Were” to donate books to men and women currently serving in the U.S. Military.

"As You Were: Stories for American GIs in WWII" performs 7 p.m. Saturday, January 25 and 3 p.m. January 26. Readings and productions are offered as "Pay What You Will." Reservations may be made online at www.parsonsnose.com or by calling 626-403-7667. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Ages 12+ suggested.

Running time is approximately 90 minutes including intermission.

"As You Were" is sponsored in part by an Anonymous Donation, The Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and the J. Mario Molina Family Foundation.

Lineage Performing Arts Center is located at 89 South Fair Oaks in Pasadena.

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Passionate thespian Candyce Columbus has a wealth of experience backstage, onstage and in the audience. From the sublime to the ridiculous and everything in between she knows there is nothing better than live theater.